Donations

The SWFLHS accepts donations of Southwest Florida historical artifacts, maps and documents that are deemed relative to the mission of the organization which is to preserve and archive the history of the area. Unlike a museum, our primary purpose is to archive historical documents and photos for research by the public. We are not able to accept large, bulky objects that may be better suited for a museum. If we are not able to accept your gift, we may return it to you or pass it on to another organization or group that could best be served having it or, as a last resort, to trash the items if we are not able to place them.

We also welcome your financial donations to assist with the ongoing building maintenance and monthly operating expenses. In addition, we are starting a Capital Improvement Fund to help cover the cost of some significant building repairs that are needed for the aging building to keep it operational for the public.

Cracker Dinner

The highlight of the year and the main fund raiser for the SWFLHS is held in February. The dinner highlights Cracker cooking and features a distinguished guest speaker after the dinner. There are also raffles and silent auctions during the evening to help raise money for the Society.

This year Woody Hanson will share “Stories about Fort Myers” on Monday, Feb 23 at 6 pm. The dinner and program are held at the Riverside Community Center, 3061 East Riverside Dr. Tickets are $30 and must be purchased in advance at the Historical Society at (239) 939-4044 or through the Edison Festival of Light Office at 334-2999.

About Southwest Florida Historical Society

The Southwest Florida Historical Society (SWFLHS) was established in 1960 by a group of citizens to “preserve the history of our area”.

In 1983 the SWFLHS received as a gift a building that was destined to be demolished by the City for a new parking lot. Harper Brothers Construction donated the building and Flint and Doyle was contracted to move the building to the campus of the Lee County Alliance of the Arts. Siting the building to its current location on the Alliance property was completed and renovations started to bring the building up to City and County Building Codes.

In 1984 the SWFLHS received its Articles of Incorporation with the following purpose:

“The mission of the society is to discover, collect and preserve original and source documents, maps and photographs pertaining to the history of SW Florida.

To bring together those interested in the history of this area; to promote and stimulate public interest and appreciation of the history of this area; and to further the preservation and knowledge of Southwest Florida's past.”

In 1987 a Dedication of the Building was held and the doors were open to the public.